War On The Streets vs. War In The Middle East? March 14, 2003

This was Colored Ink's first Hip-Hop Theater Cabaret Showcase through the 2 Generations, 1 Heartbeat Project. The show focused on the differences and similarities between the war in Iraq, and the war in Urban America. In this production, both sides argued over which issue was more important. In the end, we agreed that when wars happen, money gets taken away from the needs of the people in Urban America, and that children in Iraq and abroad were also being affected by the action in Iraq. Special Guest, Piri Thomas.

Change The Game, April 11th, 2003

It follows the story of 3 youth activists, who drive up to Sacramento for the huge rally to save California's schools. This was during the time when severe budget cuts threatened (and still do) our state's education. In the process, they learn that in order to be successful as an activist, they must change into a determined, intelligent individual who can focus on the movement and while strenghtening and maintaining the qualities of themselves. Special Guests, Janice Mirikitani and Rev. Cecil Williams.

Product Of My Environment, June 20th, 2003

Story of two young men who are trying to break free from their conditioning as youths in an disadvantaged, crime-ridden community. They realize that even though you're a product of low expectations, poverty, and struggle, it doesn't mean that you have to become a slave to it. Special Guest, Jimmy Santiago Baca.

Women, All Praise Given, July 5th, 2003

It was a show that gave acknowledgement to the daily contributions that women give to society on a daily basis. Showing the importance of having strong women in our community, and how women can help shape the future our community. Special Guest, Poet Laureate Devorah Major.

Broken Homes, October 4th, 2003

It was a story where we had charted black history, from slavery times to the modern day about the various attempts by the racist ruling class of America to break up black families for profit. Focusing on how the slave masters have morphed into new forms of institutions such as CPS, Welfare, and adoption agencies. This production presented cautionary glimpse into what the future of black families will be like if we don't address these important social issues in the present. Special Guest, Poet Mother Avotcja.

Wake Up, Wake Up!, December 2nd and 3rd, 2003

Colored Ink's biggest show of 2003, where we addressed the issue of how the corporate media is corrupting and brainwashing our kids through television and radio. We used the terms "Boogeymen" and "vampires" who preyed on the minds of kids when parents weren't watching. But, Mother Earth is trying to bring these kids back to a spiritual base where the Boogeymen can't affect them. Our special guest was beatnik poet, Tony Seymour.